After a strict vetting process, OCGMC was selected to take part in the three-year observational study called MaRISS (Mild and Rapidly Improving Stroke Study). The goal of the study is to evaluate the long-term outcomes of people with mild or rapidly improving stroke symptoms; determine the factors associated with poor outcome; and to examine the effect of treatment with the clot-busting drug tPA, or tissue plasminogen activator, the only drug approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat acute ischemic stroke.

“OCGMC is devoted to helping our patients with strokes have the best possible outcomes, and through this important study, we hope to learn more about optimal treatment that will heighten the quality of life for many who experience a mild or rapidly-improving stroke. As a Certified Comprehensive Stroke Center we are ecstatic to see more growth in our patients’ success,” said Kim Dyer, the Director of OCGMC’s Stroke Department.

Mild and rapidly improving stroke symptoms are common, affecting more than a third of all stroke patients who report to the emergency department, but the majority are not treated with clot-busting therapy, according to a 2011 study published in the journal Stroke. But up to one-third of these patients are unable to return directly to their homes, and need immediate physical or occupational therapy to regain their independence. The MaRISS study aims to determine the long-term outcomes of these patients.

“This is an important research study that addresses an important group of patients who have the best chance of recovery from a stroke,” said Jose Romano, M.D., MaRISS principal investigator and professor of clinical neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. “The MaRISS study addresses a critical knowledge gap in stroke research and we commend OCGMC for being part of this vital study.”

Using data from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s quality improvement program, Get With The Guidelines-Stroke, researchers will examine outcomes of up to 2,650 patients with mild or rapidly improving stroke. Each participating hospital is expected to recruit about 30 patients during the course of the study, an estimated two patients per month, and follow-up with these patients by telephone at 30 and 90 days after enrollment.